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David Archuleta Wikipedia

David James Archuleta (born December 28, 1990) is an American singer-songwriter and actor. At ten years old, he won the children's division of the Utah Talent Competition leading to other television singing appearances.[6] When he was twelve years old, Archuleta became the Junior Vocal Champion on Star Search 2.[6] In 2007, at sixteen years old, he became one of the youngest contestants on the seventh season of American Idol.[7] In May 2008 he finished as the runner-up, receiving 44 percent of over 97 million votes.

My Kind Of Christmas Concert ~ Click On Picture To Watch Concert!

Charities David Supports

Hijole…Spanish Music!!

In an interview on the red carpet at the recent American Idol finale, David stated that after he finishes his current album, he’ll record another one in Spanish.

Further confirmation came this week when David was interviewed by The Morning Paper/KHOP in California. He said that it’s always been one of his dreams to do an album in Spanish and hopes to do one soon.

When David Archuleta crosses over to the Latin market and starts releasing music en espanol, the buzz is that his career could skyrocket. It was the Latin community who embraced him and bestowed on him the prestigious Alma Award for “Rising Star” and the Latin community who invited David to participate in “Somos El Mundo,” the Spanish version of “We Are The World,” to raise revenue for Haiti.

It didn’t take long for fans to realize that two of David’s new writers, Mitch Allan and Shelly Peiken have some Spanish songs to their credit. Speculation became high of the possibility of the inclusion of a Spanish song on David’s new CD.

“Ni Freud, Ni Tu Mama” (Neither Freud, Nor Your Mom), a collaborative effort of Mitch Allan and Shelly Peiken was written in 2006 and recorded by the Mexican singer, Belinda. It became a top 5 hit single in Central and South America.

Ay mi corazon! Could they be collaborating on some Spanish songs for David? Still reeling from “Contigo en la Distancia,” more gems may be on their way. With David’s unique interpretation skills, he can tell a story in any language because he communicates not just with words, but with his whole being.

Hailing from Baltimore, Maryland, Mitch Allan grew up listening to the music of Steely Dan, Pink Floyd and Super Tramp, his father’s favorite music, and was taught to pay attention to each instrument used in a song. He became very active in the Baltimore music scene in the mid-nineties as lead singer and guitarist for his first band, Honor Among Thieves who later became known as SR-17 when they signed with RCA Records. Currently focusing on song writing and producing, Mitch Allan started working with Kara DioGuardi. They wrote their first song together so quickly that he approached her about other song writing opportunities. The second song they co-wrote was “Bella Tracion” for Belinda and it won him a Latin Grammy award for Song of the Year.

“I have known Mitch a long time and his talent as a writer and producer never ceases to amaze me. He is a diverse talent who I am proud to call a friend…”, said Kara DioGuardi.

Mitch Allan, Kara DioGuardi and David Hodges collaborated on the song “Lost” which became a hit for Faith Hill. In 2009, he co-wrote with Kara DioGuardi, the American Idol winner’s song, “No Boundaries“.

Mitch Allan’s fun song “1985”, a huge hit for the band Bowling For Soup, went on to become certified Digital Triple Platinum. It holds the iTunes record for the most downloads in one week. After this song, Mitch’s phone started to ring off the hook and he became a sought-after songwriter.

His other Spanish credits include “Algunas Mas” (Someone Else) and “Perdido En Ti” (Lost In You) co-written by Mitch Allan for Diego Gonzalez. It charted within the Top 5 in Mexico.

Shelly Peiken

“I never take anything for granted, never assume there will be another hit.”

Shelly Peiken didn’t plan on being a songwriter; she envisioned a career in fashion designing. But music bit her early on when she started writing songs as a young child. She performed in clubs in NewYork, waiting six years to finally earn enough to support herself solely from her music. In interviews she said she writes about 50 songs per year. From those, she estimates that half will be recorded, eight will be released, three will get radio play and hopefully “one will be a big hit.” By establishing relationships early on with labels, producers and managers, she was able to get her songs heard by artists and record companies which opened a lot of doors for her. She crossed musical genres, and now writes not only pop and rock music but also country music and for international recording artists.

There’s a lot to look forward to in the upcoming months in ArchuHeaven. We’re being showered with a NY Times bestselling book, TV appearances, book signings, radio interviews and performances. The drought is over and I predict a flood of soft consonants coming our way. Find some high ground, hold on tight, and kiss your corazon goodbye!

248 Responses to “Hijole…Spanish Music!!”

FGsaid

Hijole Bebe what an awesome article! This is one subject I can’t even begin to fully process. The jig is up isn’t it? I am afraid. I love him singing in Spanish, LOVE it. There are so many things I love about it! GAHHHHHH! I only hope he does his Spanish tour here too, he is smart enough to know that we would come even if we don’t understand it, right? SPANISH WORLD TOUR!!!

pabuckiesaid

Bebereader thanks for all this info. about the songwriters. Will have to re-read to take it all in. I’m on overload! haha
But, agree with FG whether or not I understand it I would most certainly be there for a concert with all Spanish songs!!

munkmusicsaid

Oh My Gosh you guys! I can hardly breathe from all the great interviews, book signing and anticipation and then you lay this one on me! How’s a girl suppose to breathe? hahaha….. Hold on for the ride! It is going to be awesome!

Great job giving us the scoop on the song writers again. I have to say on this particular subject, David pushes everything else into the background. All I can focus on is…Oh mama. How am I going to survive this? A whole album of David singing in Spanish! 😯 And if that’s not scary enough, FG mentioned a Spanish tour? Of course, he would have to do a tour when the album comes out but I just never thought of that.

Think.about.it.

You all know how he gets when he sings in Spanish. He moves different. His facial expressions are different. He gets all hot-blooded Latin when he does these songs. Have you noticed how he always talks about his “blood” when asked about doing Spanish music? I don’t know which is more lethal…the fast numbers with bachata rhythm/moves or the slow ones ala Contigo. Oh my corazon. I just called and signed up for short-term disabilty with my job. Not taking any chances and not.even.kidding. Like FG said above, “The jig is up isn’t it? I am afraid.” ditto.

djafansaid

Bebe…great info in preparation for the now confirmed spanish album. I’ve been reading the comments on SEM,CELD, y CLF, let me tell you the season is ripe for David to enter the latin market. The latin community is anxious with anticipation, including many of my family members and friends who like David, but don’t have ODD. They’ve all expressed that the spanish they’ve heard him sing is enough for them to say, David en espanol is going to be epic.

That first picture in “vestido de charro” wow. He can also sing this, in the first video on the vodpod, the first time he sang Selena, at the end he starts to sing another song “El Toro Relajo”, which is a ranchera song covered by Selena….

Or this…one of my favorites…listen to those consonants and imagine them coming from David’s labios…que vamos hacer?

Shawnasaid

Awesome info, Bebe. Love this. I would love to hear him sing a whole album in Spanish, even though I wouldn’t understand a word of it, but I know I would feel the music because David would be singing it. Hum, maybe I will learn Spanish in the next year to make sure I understand even the words!!

Dja, thanks for posting that vid. My first youtube video I ever did. I am getting so good at it now, three more are up. haha! Now if I can just get the filming of the vids down, I could go professional maybe!!j/k

Looking forward to Idaho, and I will take the camera, but can’t promise I will take any vids. Might try a couple, just for practice.

bebereadersaid

Hey all: Glad you’re enjoying the article. It was a pleasure to research these writers while David’s soft consonants and Latin dance moves were playing with my head. heh

Thank you, Angelica, for your amazing vision; djafan, for your help deciphering the Spanish words; and Abrra, for letting me “borrow” that adorable sombrero pic up top and for your awesome video splicing skills.

#1 FG “I only hope he does his Spanish tour here too, he is smart enough to know that we would come even if we don’t understand it, right?”

Hear that, David? 😉

#6 Munkmusic: Been a fan of Enrique’s since “Hero”! Thanks for that video!

bebereadersaid

Here’s an excerpt from a mother, whose child was among those in Washington DC last week with the CMN:

“We were eventually told to gather in the dining room, where the kids were placed on risers in anticipation of the President. The wait was a little long for 55 kids, so our amazing CMN bus leader Aubrey started a sing-along. What better sing-along than one that includes an American Idol finalist, right? With no convincing, David Archuleta stood in front of the kids and gave an impromptu performance of “Lean on Me.” It was amazing, but let me tell you why. Whenever Amelia has a surgery (and this happens often, since she’s up to 51), I have a playlist on my iPod that I listen to. It’s a mix of inspirational and soothing songs that carry me through the wait. Each song on there now reminds me of those emotions I feel as I wait for my baby to come out of surgery, and the joy I feel when the doctors once again do their magic for us. “Lean on Me” has been on that playlist for many years.

David starts singing and I’m suddenly overwhelmed with the joy of having this opportunity, the esthetic appreciation of such a beautiful instrument in such a gracious young man, and the accompanying emotions related to Amelia’s medical struggles. I wish there was a way to let David know what those minutes meant to me.”

if I ever hear this song on the glorious voice of david, ……. I do not imagine, would be a dream come true.
Could find the translation, but lost a lot of metaphors, so just ask them to simply listen, thanks.

Pattiraesaid

Way to go my bud, Shawna!! I watched you take that video at the signing in Orem and hoped we’d all get a chance to view it. Thanks for getting so internet savvy. Absolutely loved it. David is so warm and gracious to everyone. Really, you could just sit and watch him for hours—which is what we did in Orem. The signing was at noon, and by the time we all went to lunch it was after 3:00pm. Can hardly contain myself for the concert in Rexburg in TWO days!!

I do want to thank Bebe for the info on Mitch Allen and Shelly Peiken and a forthcoming Spanish album. Woot! Woot! Maybe Shawna and I can learn Spanish together. Just a thought! Have a great day everyone!

What a beautiful letter. I hope someone near David shows it to him. I know he would be so moved and gratified.

It really doesn’t bother me at all that I can’t understand the words when he sings in Spanish. It’s like the way abstract art affects me when I look at a painting by Mark Rothko.

There is no story or hook to reality to distract you from the pure beauty of color, form, and composition. When I hear David sing words I don’t understand, it’s like listening to him do runs or the way he loses himself emotionally in “The Howl.” It’s just pure sound and pure emotion. There is just something about not having to be distracted by a story, or not having to deal with the obstacle of words or pictures that sometimes just gets in the way of communication with the soul. Listening to him sing Contigo is like nothing I have ever felt. The sound and all the meaning and emotion washed over me and came to my understanding loud and clear the way no mere words ever could have conveyed it. It still has that same effect every time I listen.

djafansaid

The “sound” that is what I mean with my obsession with the consonants, the sound, in Contigo, you can feel the pain, the longing without understanding a word. David does this to perfection. Just watch his face, the way his eyes part, the way his lips move to make these sounds, his body language… yes Angelica abstract art indeed. I can feel and hear his soul.

bebereadersaid

I can’t adequately describe the way the emotion in David’s voice makes me feel, especially in the Christmas songs. But I do know that I crave the timbre of his voice and any sound he makes, at my weakest moments because it makes me feel whole again. The more emotional the song, the better the fix.

That’s why it doesn’t matter if he sings Christmas songs in July or if he sings in a language we don’t understand or if there are no lyrics except his humming or wailing. It’s the unique quality in his voice that draws you in and holds you prisoner for life!

cbsaid

Thanks for this post Bebe. I am one of those people who always wants all of the background information. I find it fascinating.

Angelica16, “There is no story or hook to reality to distract you from the pure beauty of color, form, and composition. When I hear David sing words I don’t understand, it’s like listening to him do runs or the way he loses himself emotionally in “The Howl.” It’s just pure sound and pure emotion. There is just something about not having to be distracted by a story, or not having to deal with the obstacle of words or pictures that sometimes just gets in the way of communication with the soul. Listening to him sing Contigo is like nothing I have ever felt. The sound and all the meaning and emotion washed over me and came to my understanding loud and clear the way no mere words ever could have conveyed it. It still has that same effect every time I listen.”

Angelica’s eloquent description of listening to David sing in spanish hit home for me. It reminded me of David’s explanation in COS of how music affected him when he was young, before he could even begin to understand the meaning of the words and there was just the music. When he was only a little guy, he already felt the music in his soul! He still feels it in his soul and when he sings, he shares those feelings and we can feel it in our souls too, and our souls expand. It goes beyond mere words. When I first heard “Contigo”, or “Imagine”, or “When You Say You Love Me”, those were moments when time stood still, and there was nothing but the beauty of his voice, the overwhelming emotion that his voice conveyed, and the love he shared with us. He truly is a blessing and I can no longer imagine my world without his voice in it.

cbsaid

Shawna, Hey, You go girl. Getting all tech savvy and uploading those vids! It was great that the store didn’t kick us out and we could just stand there and watch that smile and glowing face. We stayed behind people, (didn’t want to be too obvious) and just gazed to our hearts content. We didn’t even want to leave to eat. LOL

embesaid

djafan #19
“David playing basketball? I bet he’s really good at it :)”

That’s actually true – David’s friends once said he is very good at basketball, but what’s funny is, that they also said David gets quite aggressive when playing 😀 If I remember correctly, they called him (and I quote) “an animal” 😀 Oh LOL indeed.

djafansaid

“those were moments when time stood still, and there was nothing but the beauty of his voice, the overwhelming emotion that his voice conveyed, and the love he shared with us. He truly is a blessing and I can no longer imagine my world without his voice in it.”

Who you callin’ eloquent? Thanks but speak for yourself, missy. lol.

Embe#24

I remember reading that too from a friend of David’s in school about how aggressive he is when playing basketball. Boy I would pay ready money to see that. The Orem ladies are reporting great enjoyment (to the point of forgetting all about food) just watching him sign his name and politely interact with fans for 3 whole hours.

Tawna21said

bebe–thank you for the backgrounds on these two writers. I love knowing about them. When the Spanish album comes out, oh my! We’ll all be finding those headsets that can interpret what is being said and wearing them around. lol!

Shawnasaid

Bebe, just caught that too. He is so dang cute. I could just squish him!!

Sorry about that last vid bebe posted. A bit all over the place, but that was my very first foray into taking a vid with a camera, and I obviously suck at it. I also had the zoom all the way on, I wasn’t really that close, and I couldn’t get it to unzoom while filming. And that jiggling during “God Bless the Broken Road” and the talking, yea, that would be me talking to my son and trying to get him to see where I was. He had walked over from his girlfriends condo to see me. He took a vid of me getting my books signed, but he was kind of being a bit vocal and snarky about me having been there since 6:30 in the morning and about my ODD problem and I am not going to utube that one. Emi would have liked it cause you can hear me telling him she is from Nashville, but oh well. Kids, you love em, but sometimes, u want to smack them upside the head, right? My son is the polar opposite of David and just about 8 months older is all. That is why David just amazes me with all his wisdom at such a young age, cause my son hasn’t one bit of wisdom in that tall(6’6″)skinny body(or mind)of his!!!

iteachkidz22said

Here is part 2 of the interview. Local News 8 says they will have the interview up on their site later this afternoon. I’m sure it will be better quality than mine. lol If you don’t want to wait, you can watch this.

djafansaid

refnafsaid

(((cb))) “I can no longer imagine my world without his voice in it.” Amen to that!!!

bebebe, love all the research you do on David’s co-writers…. you are awesome! A Spanish album would be good for David and for us!!! I can not wait for what the future brings. I notice that David no longer says “if I have a career in music ” or “as long as my career lasts”. He seems to understand finally that he will be around for a while!

blueskysaid

I feel so incredibly blessed and LAZY!! I can just come here and find e.v.e.r.y.t.h.i.n.g.
I can just lurk if I need to. I can read the amazing article above and get tons of info.
I can look at crazy good videos.
I can read about peeps who share my obscure (barely holding on to the “obscure” bit, he is getting so well known!) passion for the VOICE.

*sigh*

I am surfeiting in the Archu-surf and basking on the beach of Archu-dom.

bebereadersaid

Can one comment on one’s own comment? In my comment #38 I said that David had a whimsical tone when talking about the surprises on Saturday night. I changed my mind. David’s tone wasn’t whimsical; it was downright sly and sneaky with a hint of mischief. And he wears it well.

blueskysaid

Oh! That’s YOU I see out there! *waves*
No worries. I know just the guy to offer you a friendly hand.
He’s rowing about on the Archu-raft rescuing fair damsels while singing “I’m coming to save the day”.
He is accompanied by two kissable dolphins on guitar and a hush-cat on drums.

FGsaid

emmegirlsaid

Have had “too many to count” moments of extreme ODD that snuck up on me from out of the blue. The intensity kinda catches ya off guard – fighting it is useless, absolutely pointless… there is nothing left but sweet surrender.

betsysaid

bebereadersaid

David Archuleta – I always felt like I was trying to keep up with life

REXBURG – David Archuleta is in town to perform a concert at BYU-Idaho this Saturday. But first, he made a special visit to the Rexburg Deseret Book store to give out autographs to some fans.

David Archuleta’s new book is titled “Chords of Strength.” And fans lined up early to meet their idol.

SINGING: “You and I must make a pact. We must bring salvation back,” sang David Archuleta.

It’s that voice that made Archuleta famous over night. And while he’s still a teenager, that hasn’t prevented him from writing a book about over coming issues that every teen faces.

“A lot of people say, you’re just 19! And it’s like, at first I thought I’m 19 and what could I say. Don’t people do that later in life? But people say that age is just a number. It doesn’t change that people that are younger they still go through things, they still go through challenges, and they still learn and grow,” said Archuleta.

“What’s it like to be David Archuleta?” I asked.

“I always felt like I was trying to keep up with life. And so it’s like here it is, and then all of a sudden SWOOSH… WAIT FOR ME! That’s how it felt. It’s been good, because it’s helped me push myself farther than I would have pushed myself,” explained Archuleta.

The Utah native was an American Idol contestant at the age of 16.

“I’ve gone past what I thought were my limits,” (said Archuleta

“When people read this book, what are they going to see?” I asked Archuleta.

“I just share experiences that I’ve gone through about American Idol, the vocal process, and why music is so important to me. I’m hoping that will just motivate people and help encourage them. I’ve had some issues with confidence,” said Archuleta.

Archuleta says he hopes his book will encourage people to over come issues like that when they read his book.

If you missed the book signing, you can attend Archuleta’s performance this Saturday night at BYU-Idaho.

Abrrasaid

Your writers series is helpful in giving more depth and richness to the whole David experience. When his first Cd came out, I didn’t have a “relationship” with any of songwriters. Getting to know the many writers he has worked with puts a face on the names. The songs in the article are so good!

pabuckiesaid

FGsaid

Angelica – that dog spazzing was me after hearing the soft consonants LOL!

About the older fan tryin to kiss him, I wish he’d stop with the age of the person. NO ONE, of any age should be trying to kiss him. He could say “one time a fan tried to kiss me and she was really persistant and it made me uncomfortable.” Why does he havta talk about her age? GRRRRR!

FGsaid

OK maybe her age is what made him uncomfortable? What would he think if a young fan tried it? Any volunteers? I think he’d still be uncomfortable, I really do. I’m going to have to have a talk with him LOL.

betsysaid

FG – I think it’s probably happened with the younger girls. It probably didn’t bother him so much. 🙂
Late 30’s – 40… It would weird the heck out of my sons. And one is 28. He has determined that 35 is his age limit.

I think it was a really weird experience for him because I’ve heard him tell about it before and the woman kept coming at him. He said he had to fight her off and it was really difficult because he didn’t want to hurt her physically but it was that aggressive on her part. Her being older and someone who ought to know better didn’t help and it was just a creepy experience for him. He is still very young, never been kissed, and remember how you felt at his age about men much older than you. That’s a pretty normal reaction. If I had seen that wench pull that stunt I would have pulled her beastly hide off him.

Have you ever had an older man grab and paw you and try to kiss you when you were a teenager? I have and it isn’t something you ever forget.

bebereadersaid

iteachkidz22said

Bebereader, Thank you for posting the KIDK interview. I love it! Especially David singing! Oh, I can’t wait for the surprises David has planned for Saturday night!

You’re very welcome to those who commented on the Local News 8 videos I posted earlier.

I was able to attend the Rexburg book signing this evening. It was AWESOME! I tried to be at the end of the line so that I would have a bit of time to talk to David. I didn’t quite make the end, but was close enough that I got David’s undivided attention for several minutes! I think he even recognized me this time as he said, “Oh, Hi!” when he saw me. lol What a blessing it is to be able to talk to him! It is amazing how he treats each one of his fans with such respect and attention. When you talk to him he looks right at you and smiles. Oh, and that smile can make your day, no week!

My hubby went with me to this book signing. I had to bribe him with dinner out afterwards to get him to go. lol He ended up having a pretty good time standing in line meeting so many, nice fans. I don’t think he will ever understand my devotion to David, but he is wonderful to be so supportive of me, even in my craziness!

I took a video just as David was leaving the book signing. Here it is.

bebereadersaid

Iteachkidz22 #77 Loved your video of David leaving the book-signing! Are you also going to the concert on Saturday night?

David brings back classic songs that we loved from the seventies, eighties and nineties. “Maybe I’m Amazed”, “I’ll Be There”…these are songs that we rarely hear anymore but are being revived in the hands of The Voice.

embesaid

Angelica: I totally agree about the age-thing. I’ve had much older men approach me, not even forcibly trying to kiss me like the woman in David’s case, and it made me really uncomfortable.

David probably mentioned her age, because he didn’t understand why a woman in her late 30’s would WANT TO KISS A BOY. And David was barely 18 at the time. If it was a teenage girl, it would be “normal”, because of course it’s common for young girls to want to kiss a cute, young guy. Granted, David would’ve still felt uncomfortable, but he would’ve viewed the situation as more understandable.

It’s not like David was talking about any of you! Of course it’s completely okay for women of any age to feel attracted to David, but it’s another thing if you’re trying to force yourself onto him.

pabuckiesaid

betsysaid

My internet got all wonky last night and I never heard “I’ll be there” until just now. I’m not surprised that it is beautiful. But I really feel the meaning in the lyrics now. Just two sentences. Wow.
Am loving the mgr abs. Thanks.

YJfanofdavidsaid

Abrra, After hearing “You and I must make a pact, we must bring salvation back” from those lips, the rest of my day is now kaput. Who is able to think or function after hearing THAT? Are you kidding me?

Bluesky,did you say the water is fine? 🙂

(Bebe, thank you for continuing our education on David and his music! Great stuff.)

djafansaid

I’m convinced that David has decided to make mush out of all of us. Those two verses are the most beautiful things I’ve heard, at least until the next time. One of my most favorite allllllllllll time songs. Wonder what triggered him to go into that song and please David now has to add that to Maybe I’m Amazed and One and sing the full songs soon, like Saturday. I’m not asking for to much.

Djafan-“I’m convinced that David has decided to make mush out of all of us.” I agree!

I think David now needs to come with a warning label:

WARNING! The Surgeon General has determined that this much gorgeousness coupled with unsurpassed vocal skills may cause respiratory and/or cardiac arrest, even when used responsibly. Proceed at your own risk.

I tried to wait last night for the vid of I’ll Be There to arrive on YT but got so sleepy. What a sweet thing to open my eyes and ears to! Abrra thanks for making that MGR. It is so seamlessly done. The grasshopper ❤ you.

Bebe, thanks for the pics in #76. I know someone who went to a book signing mentioned here that you can't imagine how he has matured unless you see him in person now. There is definitely something different about him. He's leaving the Teen Age and moving into the Age of Man. haha. Srly, this boy he is a-changing.

I love the expressions on the faces of the anchorwomen in the middle pic of #74, especially the weather girl at the end. It's like, "Lookit who we got here and just look at him now!!"

Can't wait till tomorrow night. Our first real concert since..Jiminy Christmas, has it been that long?

Pabuckiesaid

#104 – I do like the 2 smileys 🙂 🙂 — not sure if it means guitar…but whatever it is I think David is pretty DANG HAPPY about what he is gonna KNOCK US OVER WITH!!! I think there might be a song we’ve never heard him do before!

My Barriers choice by our own emilyluvsarchie. Who, btw, has been super busy with honors projects and finals but is now off from school and scribbling away writing for The Voice. I have her first article. To be published soon. 🙂 🙂 =guitar

Shawnasaid

#113 – thanks for the info, Pabuckie. I will just have to see about getting him to sign my original CD of his. He already signed my Christmas one at Women’s Conference!! But if I do that, I may never get home that night. I really don’t want to come home that night. It is going to be a long day, but no complaining here, I get to hear him live and that will make up for having to drive home late, cause I am sure we will all be floating out there somewhere and the conversation will be lively on the way home. No falling asleep for me, since I am the driver!

collegemomsaid

Pabuckie – thanks for posting “A Moment Like This”. I hadn’t heard that one for a long time. Just today when I was walking and “Angels in the Alleyway” came up on my Ipod and so when I got home I looked up Merrick Christensen and listened to the other song he wrote called “The Most Beautiful Part About This Is” and David recorded
Then I saw that Christensen has a website and he wrote a little blog about David and the two songs: http://merrickchristensen.com – just scroll down to his June 5,2010 post.

bebereadersaid

Great find! I had to bring Merrick Christensen’s words here for all to see. After all, this is the place to celebrate the wonder that is David Archuleta.

“A few years ago I was blessed to record two songs that I had written with David Archuleta. The first Angels in The Alleyway was primarily written about my struggles with the mental illness I’ve dealt with for several years. The fear I think we all feel that we’ve lost our mind, are somehow different, and have let everyone including ourselves and God down. The end of the song attempts to portray the hope & salvation I know and feel when I turn to God. His supporting me, and my realizing it.

The second, The Most Beautiful Part About This Is… was written for an uncle of mine who was diagnosed with terminal illness at a relatively young age. The song is about the faith and inspiration I felt and witnessed from him, and his entire family. I am still amazed every time I think about them. David was kind enough to record these songs with me. This song, in particular, has been a huge strength to my family, or at least I like to think so.
A huge thanks…

I can’t thank David enough for the incredible impact his recording these songs have had in my life and my family’s. He is truly a gifted man and everything you perceive about him, you know that wholesome, good, humble person; in my opinion and experience is entirely true. I can’t think of a better person to have the success that David has since American Idol, I have never even heard of someone handling such fame and growth with such grace and humility; especially at such a young age. I can’t give David enough props for that and all the other things I’ve been able to see. I hope this post isn’t perceived as a plug for the songs I’ve done with him, as you can see that aren’t linked anywhere on this site. This is just me sincerely expressing my gratitude.”

bebereadersaid

“The multi-award winning A CAPITOL FOURTH will be hosted by Emmy and Golden Globe Award-winning actor Jimmy Smits, with unrivaled performances by some of the country’s best-known musicians, including multiple Grammy, CMA and ACM Award-winning country music superstar Reba McEntire; country music sensation Darius Rucker; singer David Archuleta (American Idol); actor and singer John Schneider; and renowned classical pianist Lang Lang with the National Symphony Orchestra under the direction of top pops conductor Jack Everly (additional talent to be announced).”

Heidijoysaid

Just saw a twitter from @tejanomusic10 that David will be singing at a tribute to Selena at an upcoming Music Awards event. I’m sure more details will follow. I don’t have twitter myself.
Lot’s of excitement and mystery. Spanish Music for the win. Thanks for the great article and site.

pabuckiesaid

REXBURG — If you thought David Archuleta could only pack a concert hall, you should have been at Deseret Book Thursday evening.

Fans swarmed to get their copies of Archuleta’s book “Chords of Strength” signed, in what was the largest crowd the store has ever seen.

“The line goes down to Odell’s (Furniture), and has for 2 hours solid,” said Mike Jenkins, store manager, after the signing had started. “My guess is several thousand people will come through by the end of the night, probably 2 or 3.”

He wasn’t far off. According to Deseret Book employee Ashley Jensen, 1,500 to 2,000 people came through the store Thursday after Archuleta started signing at 6 p.m., though official numbers won’t be available until next week. Jensen also said 233 copies of Archuleta’s book were sold on Thursday, numbers she said were, “definitely above normal.”

“I’ve worked here for two years, and I’ve never seen anything like this,” said Jensen. “We’re so excited about this.”

And they weren’t the only ones who were excited. According to Jenkins, the first person in line, showing up around 10 a.m., was from Canada, the second from San Diego.

“They drove here just for this,” said Jenkins.

There were old and young, male and female (though overwhelmingly female), and the camera flashes were as nonstop as the crowd. But there was one thing everyone had in common: They were all smiles. The line wasn’t rushed, and everyone seemed patient as Archuleta personalized each book set in front of him and posed for pictures.

“We did everything above and beyond what we were hoping to do to prepare for this,” said Jensen. And that preparation paid off by creating a memorable evening for hundreds.

Archuleta can next be seen at the Brigham Young University-Idaho Hart Auditorium tonight in concert.

Part of BYU-Idaho’s Spirit Week activities, the show may or may not include new music for the fans. Archuleta wouldn’t give anything away. He has a new album coming out in the Fall, with the single arriving in July, both far enough in the future that Archuleta wouldn’t give up details. There are still tickets available for the Saturday night concert.

“Thank you for all the support you have shown and continue to show,” Archuleta said, speaking to his fans in the upper valley.

“I hope you enjoy the new music that’s coming out, and reading the book. It’s all for you.”

Tickets are $35 for the general public and $20 for BYU-Idaho students and employees. Tickets can be purchased at the BYU-Idaho Ticket Office by calling 496-2230, or online at http://www.byui.edu/tickets.

emmegirlsaid

vanessar0323said

wohoo.. I love the idea that David release an album in spanish .. It can take David to the next level.. Hispanic market is a great platform and David deserves more recognition and deserves all the success in the world 😀

bebereadersaid

IDK which event to squee over more, The Tejano Music Awards or The Capitol Fourth of July event in DC!

The DC event sound huge! Brought these random comments over from IDF:

“The capitol 4th is a big deal. there are millions of people who tune in to watch this program. they have had some of the biggest names in the industry be a part of this event over the years… plus they have a spectacular fireworks display at the end… it’s nothing to sneeze at as far as publicity and exposure goes, and rest assured there will be a large audience watching… this is a coup for him, to snag a spot on this.”

“This sounds like more promo than usual already. I’m excited!”

“”A Capitol Fourth” is attended by hundreds of thousands of people and viewed by, on average, 10 million people on television, according to USA Today.”

“This is awesome! David seems to be getting alot more TV time this year!”

djafansaid

Good times…gooooood times ahead too. Can’t wait for tomorrow night and all the rest. While we wait…these pics are from my dear online friend Maggie from the Idaho book signing. She will be at the Rexburg concert tomorrow and will take video. Her YT channel is ziffle77. She’s the one who took some great video during the AI tour using a pair of binoculars in front of her camera. 😆

bebereadersaid

emmegirlsaid

Some were concerned about security and vids tomorrow. I was thinking videos of this concert would be a great way to help start building excitement for the single and album. Hoping the whomever decides that sees it that way too!

djafansaid

silverfoxsaid

It is 1:30 AM EST and the countdown has begun….in about 24 hours, hopefully we will have the first VIDEO of David in concert, FINALLY, AGAIN, AT LAST! I cannot wait!

I don’t think anyone in David’s Kingdom will get any sleep tomorrow night! His “Loyal Subjects”
will be waiting up all night for that first video, just like we used to do for all HIS concerts, beginning with the AI Tour, and all the concerts since. This time though is different as we haven’t had a “David in Concert” drought this long before & we can feel the excitement… so much excitement in the air! David still leaves me breathless with anticipation! 😀

bebereadersaid

Had a wild time in The Voice Unplugged last night. We were there until the weeee hours of the morning, watching Christmas tour videos. I’ve come to the conclusion that it doesn’t matter what is playing when we get in the room; the new ones are a treat but the older ones are like comfort food. Thanks to all who were there last night. You know who you are! 😉 Fun times!

Pabuckie#160 Did The New York Times review “Chords Of Strength” in that issue of the book review? Been looking for a NYT review online but haven’t found one yet.

beebee!! Hi!! Can’t hardly sit still cause I’m spaaazzzzziiiinnnggg too!! I have been signed in to Blog TV since yesterday morning. Want to make sure I beat the rush. hahahahahahhaahahahahahhahha!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I really need to lie down and get a grip. NOT!!!

silverfoxsaid

Is it just me, or is the time just draggin’ along like I’m not waiting for something so important, so powerful, so explosive, that I keep glancing at all the freakin’ clocks in my house? Is it time yet? Is it time yet? Is it time yet? How much longer before David’s concert?

pabuckiesaid

#164 Bebereader – No the NY Times did not review his book, but I am so happy to see his Name and Book on the list at #15. BTW, the new list for next week’s paper is out and David’s book did not make it on that list.

#165 Angelica — you’re not the only one who signed up for the cellcast yesterday morning! haha — me too! Can’t Wait!

Silverfox: I hear ya! You have a sad smiley and then a happy smiley! Oh I wish I were in Idaho too!

silverfoxsaid

OK. I have cleaned the house and made a pan of fudge for tonight and am all set. (You guys probably think I’m Jabba the Hut the way I talk about chocolate but I am only 114 lbs) LOL! Anyhoo, Now all that is left is to wait for Daaaavvvviiiiidd!!!!

pabuckiesaid

SandyBeachessaid

I think that the well known David ‘drought’ had all the reasons in the world to happen. We took the time and watched and listened to everything that was about David so that we would have so much room for more. I am still totally over the top with excitement for David ‘returning’ to the White House within weeks of his first visit. We have wondered what he is going to be up to and now we know that he tells us at the appropriate time. I know that he told us everything in his book, “But where did this guy really come from?” He is magical…I didn’t sleep well last night, but then I should learn to turn off my iphone!!

djafansaid

SandyBeachessaid

dja…thanks for the moose picture, I just headed out to find it. I have been having trouble logging on to the chat Unplugged with my new pc. What could I be missing? Well, I know that internet smarts I am missing but I am trying!!

pabuckiesaid

That was AMAZING!!!! He got choked up at the end and sang Be Still My Soul. People were tweeting that he was putting so much into the songs he looked exhausted and Momjulee said he looked ready to collapse. And then he sang Imagine and Be Still My Soul. He is too wonderful for words. Going to chat to relieve some of this emotion and wait for video. Come join us. sigh…

pabuckiesaid

pabuckiesaid

betsysaid

Be Still My Soul.
I don’t know how he does it. Beyond beautiful, the whole thing. How he sings through the tears. And does it like no other could do. He is so courageous.
Perfect thing to wake up to on a Sunday morning.
Appropriate. ♥

SandyBeachessaid

Pabuckie…Thanks for the videos…Wow, you can see what he has been doing these last 6 months! I was bracing myself…when I looked up and saw you say “Brace Yourselves”…That has to be the most beautiful rendition that he has ever done for this song. That was a hymn book right? I found my way to the pc somehow this morning as I fell asleep around three and thank heavens some songs are here. They have awakened me like no coffee could!

Happy Father’s Day to all fathers who care for their families and their four legged, best friends…

pabuckiesaid

Isn’t it stunning, Sandybeaches? Seeing David holding that book and talking about God and getting choked up even while he’s talking. And then to be able to sing the song, still get choked up and make it through — you can even see him shaking his head a few times (like ok I messed that up) he is so hard on himself you can see it in that video. But, he asks for strength & receives it and that video just shows EVERYTHING! WHEW!!!!

Isaid

Isaid

SandyBeachessaid

Pabuckie…I am listening to it again and it will be listened to and watched many thousands of times…This song will be found everywhere and who knows where he will be asked to sing it. The hymn tells us about himself and what can be for everyone…Today will be more for listening and watching perhaps and another day for finding the words to describe because I know that they elude me at this.

I am in awe of his performance this morning, so I looked up the actual meaning of awe…noun
1. an overwhelming feeling of reverence, admiration, etc., produced by that which is grand, sublime, extremely powerful, or the like:

pabuckiesaid

iteachkidz22said

I cannot put into words how incredibly blessed I feel this morning as I keep reliving the fantastic experience I had last night attending David’s Rexburg concert.

SB, ‘awe’ is a great word to use in describing how I feel about this wonderful young man. In all the times I have been privileged to be in his presence, last night topped them all! Maybe it is just because last night is the most recent in my memory, or maybe it is because there had been such a long span between concerts. But, no! The two song encore of Imagine and Be Still My Soul is the reason.

I wish ever fan of David could have been there last night to feel the energy, love, and spirit emanating through David as he sang those two songs. The tears started for me the second David sat down at the keyboard and started talking about Imagine and how it has literally changed his life. By the end of Be Still My Soul, I was bawling like a baby!

About an hour after the concert, I was able to tell David in person what those songs meant to me. What a gift that was to be able to talk to him after such an awe-inspiring performance. You could tell how happy he was as he greeted his fans. His face was just beaming! It is a night I will never forget!

I have to thank all who took pictures and videos last night. I was too far back in the crowd to even attempt any photography, so I am so grateful to those of you who did. Now I have something concrete to remember last night by.

There’s something crazy about this day. Like I’m walking on a trampoline I couldn’t get much higher ooh

So if i asked you would you stay ’cause you remind me of a ballerina dancing on the wire and i don’t ever want to say goodbye. I just want to steal this moment right away from time

What do you say when you can’t come down when you feel like you’re ten feet off the ground? What do you do when you’re on the edge, now you’re here and you got me thinking ’bout parachutes and airplanes, thinkin’ about parachutes and airplanes. never hit the ground ground ground grrrrouunndd.

The world’s a thousand shades of blue like we’re here in a kaleidoscope we want it to be over. Like everything that’s in my mind is here right in front of my eyes you’re the one who got me here, and I don’t ever want to say goodbye oooohhh I just want to steal this moment right away from time.

What do you say when you can’t come down when you feel like you’re ten feet off the ground? What do you do when you’re on the edge now you’re here and you got me thinking ’bout parachutes and airplanes, thinkin’ about parachutes and airplanes. Never hit the ground

‘Cause like gets hard sometimes, and I just need a place to get away, turn the world around, I’m never coming down, ’cause I dont ever want to hit, don’t want to hit the ground ground grounndddd.

Abrrasaid

Pattiraesaid

I was there last night and can I just say that never have I experienced anything like it before (well, the first night of CFTH in SLC was pretty close) and live to tell about it. When he sang “Be Still My Heart” with such love and gratitude for the blessings in his life and the comfort he has received from God, well, can I just say, the tears flowed and could not be stopped. It was an experience I will cherish forever and I feel so much gratitude for the blessing of being there and witnessing one of the grandest nights of my life. I couldn’t even speak when it was over and saw many others in a crying stupor unable to absorb what had just happened. I also felt at the same time a mourning of sorts. This is the last time I will see and hear him in concert singing this particular set of music (yes, he will perform some again—such as zero gravity, crush, etc.) but I will miss watching his sing all these favorite songs of mine. To those of you who took pictures and videos, may I thank you from the bottom of my heart. I will treasure forever being able to look at them over and over remembering the impact he had on me last night and the tremendous love I feel for him and for all my special friends that are bonded together forever because of our special David.

Pattiraesaid

I just want to add that the crowd LOVED his new songs and really got into them. I talked to Mike K and David F after the concert and they are really hoping these songs make it to the album. It was special at the signing after the concert because he could sign anything anyone wanted. One of my friend’s daughter had him sign her cell phone. I was finally able to get two of my hard bound “Creative Memories Story Books” 2008 & 2009 by Amy Norfleet, signed. When I showed them to him and asked if he would please sign them—-he got the cutest, happiest smile on his face(you can probably picture it!!!) He also has a copy of each book) and said sure!! I said I had hoped for a miracle, then he burst into song (Olivia Newton John, singing “miracles….miracles”, you know how he does that—it was adorable! I also had him sign his 1st CD (you had to purchase something to get a ticket for the signing.) After being so exhausted by the end of the show, (momjulee was correct)he gave everything he had, as usual, I was amazed how upbeat and happy, and jubilant David was at the signing.

bebereadersaid

djafansaid

Thank you Iteach and Pattirae for sharing your experience with us. It sounds like a memorable night. David keeps surprising us and amazing us. So looking forward to the next events and the Jive announcement this week.

Thanks Abs and Bebe for the links. I had my granddaughter listen to the new songs, she loved them!!! She does favor Parachutes and Airplanes a bit more though. I’m loving both of them!

bebereadersaid

jackryan4DAsaid

My stab at the lyrics of PARACHUTES & AIRPLANES [am i displaying my preference of the two songs? 🙂 ]

There’s something crazy ’bout this day
Like I’m walking on a trampoline
I couldn’t get much higher

Ooohh, so if I ask you, would you stay?
‘Cause you remind me of a
Ballerina dancin’ on a wire

And I don’t ever want to say goodbye
I just want to steal this moment
Right away from time

Refrain:
What do you say when you can’t look down
When you feel like you’re ten feet off the ground
What do you do when you’re on the edge
Now you’re here and you got me thinking ’bout
Parachutes and airplanes
Thinking about
Parachutes and airplanes
We’ll never hit the ground, ground, ground, ground

The world’s a thousand shades of blue
Like we’re here in the kaleidoscope
Don’t want it to be over

But everything that’s in my mind
Is here right in front of my eyes
And you’re the one who got me here

And I don’t ever want to say goodbye, oohhh
I just want to steal this moment
Right away from time

Refrain:
What do you say when you can’t look down
When you feel like you’re ten feet off the ground
What do you do when you’re on the edge
Now you’re here and you got me thinking ’bout
Parachutes and airplanes
Thinking about
Parachutes and airplanes
We’ll never hit the ground

Bridge:
‘Cause life gets hard sometimes
And I just need a place to get away
So turn the world around
I’m never coming down
‘Cause I don’t ever wanna hit
Don’t wanna hit the ground
Ground, ground
Ooohh
I don’t wanna hit the ground (2x)
Ooooooohhhhh

Refrain:
What do you say when you can’t look down
When you feel like you’re ten feet off the ground
What do you do when you’re on the edge
Now you’re here and you got me thinking ’bout
Parachutes and airplanes
Thinking about
Parachutes and airplanes
Yeah, yeah, woooah

{What do you say when you can’t look down
When you feel like you’re ten feet off the ground}
What do you do when you’re on the edge
Now you’re here and you got me thinking ’bout
Parachutes and airplanes
Thinking about
Parachutes and airplanes
We’ll never hit the ground, ground, ground, ground
Never hit the ground, ground, ground, ground

He is so sweet to dedicate it to Claudia 🙂

Nicely done Mr. Archuleta. Similar theme to ZG but different approach. Very radio-friendly, an ear-worm. And I reeeeeally like his rich falsetto in the refrain. Can you just imagine the MTV. Am getting giddy imagining the interplay of scribbles, drawings, cliffs, clouds, bubble thoughts and real-life David. My goodness the MTV for this should be fabulous!

Please JIVE — if this will be the single, please make a creative MTV for it, pleeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeaaase.